Reifenhäuser converts meltblown test lines for supporting 1 million face masks daily production
Reifenhäuser Reicofil has temporarily converted two of its test plants in the nonwovens technology center to producing meltblown material for the production of urgently needed face masks for one week.
These test lines are otherwise exclusively used for research and development as well as customer trials.
Until further notice, the lines will be operated in 4-shift operation 24/7. The daily output is sufficient for up to one million face masks. Trial operations will be almost completely suspended during this period.
The meltblown material from the nonwoven technology center is already sold out for the next five weeks, according to the German machinery and plant manufacturer.
As no German or European producer for further processing could be found so far, the nonwoven fabric is going to a Vietnamese manufacturer of face masks. However, Reifenhäuser continues to look for opportunities to strengthen the local supply during this crisis.
Reifenhäuser Reicofil has converted its own meltblown test lines to production.
Dr. Bernd Kunze, CEO of Reifenhäuser Reicofil, explained the decision: “This is of course mainly the fast delivery of meltblown lines to build up additional capacities. Until the currently lacking capacities are built up, we are therefore stepping in with the test plants in our pilot plant station. Not using this capacity now would be irresponsible in our view.”
Kunze explains that material for other medical protective clothing could also be produced at short notice. “We assume that protective suits, hoods, etc. will also become scarce. We are happy to offer our help here as well,” he said.
One of the company’s pilot lines can produce the corresponding material, an SMS nonwoven, in the highest quality at short notice.
German or European companies looking for meltblown material for the production of face masks or SMS nonwovens for other medical protective clothing, please contact Reifenhäuser Reicofil: schutzvlies@reifenhauser.com.
